btw - I lived in Huntington Beach for some years and regularly played at Mile Square Park on Brookhurst. Many Courts with night Lighting and some very good Players. There is also a Tennis Club in Long Beach but I can't recall the name. But the best thing to do is find a Public Court that has a Practice Wall.

The reason for this is, Court that have Practice Walls serve as a great way to pick up a game with someone. You get watch someone hitting against the Wall and get a good feel for their Level as well as they can do the same for you. I frequently watched people hitting and determined if they would provide good competition. But there again, people hitting against the Wall are generally thrilled if someone comes along that wants to hit.

Coach

The only acceptable loss is when your opponent was better than you on that given day.
It is never acceptable to lose when your opponent was not.